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About Neil Tyra

Noel’s Husband. Bernadette’s Dad. Clark’s Father. My Three Best Roles.

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Family Comes First

Noel - The Partner

My wife, Noel, has been my partner in life for over 42 years (and counting!). She’s a Rockville native with deep roots in this community, going back three generations. Together, we’ve built a family grounded in love, support, and a little bit of chaos—just like any other.

Bernadette – The Performer

Then came Bernadette, our daughter, who grew up into a talented stage actress living in Hollywood. A University of Southern California graduate (Fight On, Trojans!), she’s chasing her dreams on the West Coast, but she always knows her home is here.

Clark – The Problem Solver

And finally, Clark, our son, an athlete turned tech pro. He was captain of both his soccer and wrestling teams before earning his degree in math and education from the University of North Carolina-Asheville. Now, he lives nearby, working as a full-stack web developer for a major technology company.

So yes, I’m incredibly lucky—my family is happy, healthy, and thriving. That’s what we all want, right? That’s also why I do what I do. Because protecting your family’s future is just as important as protecting my own.

A Unique Path to Law

From Chef to Attorney – A Career Built on Problem-Solving

I didn’t always know I’d become a lawyer. In fact, law was my fourth career. Before I ever stepped into a courtroom, I was a cook, a systems engineer for NASA and the Department of Defense, and a martial arts instructor. Each of these experiences shaped how I approach estate planning today—with discipline, practicality, and a no-nonsense attitude toward solving problems.

After decades of working in technology and business, I wanted a career where I could work directly with people—helping them make real, lasting decisions for their families. That’s what led me to The Catholic University of America’s Columbus School of Law, and eventually, to starting The Tyra Law Firm in 2007.

The Boring Resume Stuff

  • Founder & Attorney – The Tyra Law Firm

    Neil W. Tyra is the founder and driving force behind The Tyra Law Firm, LLC. His practice focuses on estate planning, probate administration, adult guardianships, and adoption, helping Maryland families secure their legacies with confidence and clarity.

  • Education

    Neil earned his Juris Doctor (J.D.) from The Catholic University of America, Columbus School of Law in Washington, D.C. 

    He completed his undergraduate degree in Information Systems Management at the University of Maryland, College Park.

  • Bar Admissions

    Neil is licensed to practice in:

     • Maryland (2004)

     • District of Columbia (2005)

     • U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland (2005)

  • Professional Memberships

     • American Bar Association

     • Maryland State Bar Association

     • District of Columbia Bar Association

     • Montgomery County Bar Association

  • Previous Legal Experience

    Before founding his firm, Neil was an attorney with Simeone & Miller, LLP, a successful Washington, D.C. firm. He also interned with the Montgomery County State’s Attorney’s Office, where he gained hands-on experience in litigation and trial work.

  • Beyond the Law – Community & Passion Projects

    Neil has always been passionate about mentorship, sports, and education.

     • As an original investor in Major League Soccer, he served on DC United’s Board of Directors during its early years.

     • A 4th-degree black belt, he founded the Kenshin Karate School, where he trained students for over 25 years.

     • He’s the host of The Law Entrepreneur podcast, which helps solo and small firm lawyers navigate the business of law.

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